Automotive Engine Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, 2019-2029F

The Automotive Engine Market was valued at USD 98.84 Billion in 2023, and is expected to reach USD 136.84 Billion by 2029, rising at a CAGR of 5.59%. The global automotive engine market is witnessing significant growth due to the rising demand for high-performance, fuel-efficient engines. Consumers are becoming more conscious of fuel consumption, leading manufacturers to innovate and develop engines that offer better efficiency without compromising on power. Engine technologies such as turbocharging, direct fuel injection, and variable valve timing are gaining popularity, providing automakers with the means to meet stricter environmental standards and consumer expectations. Furthermore, regulations on fuel economy and emissions are driving the adoption of advanced technologies that enable engines to run cleaner while still delivering optimum performance.

Several key trends are shaping the future of the automotive engine market. The growing emphasis on sustainability is prompting manufacturers to explore alternative fuels and hybrid engine options that reduce reliance on traditional fossil fuels. This shift not only helps address environmental concerns but also aligns with the increasing government push for greener technologies. The integration of smart technologies into engine design is another prominent trend. The adoption of engine management systems that optimize performance in real-time through sensors and electronic control units (ECUs) is enhancing both vehicle performance and fuel efficiency. Consumers are looking for vehicles that combine power, efficiency, and technology, pushing manufacturers to continue innovating in these areas.

Despite the positive outlook, the market faces challenges that could affect its growth trajectory. The high cost of advanced engine technologies and the complexity of integrating new materials and components into engine systems can deter smaller manufacturers from making significant investments. Additionally, the fluctuation in fuel prices and the reliance on global supply chains for parts and materials can disrupt production timelines and cost structures. Moreover, the increasing focus on electric and hybrid vehicles, even though outside the current market scope, may cause manufacturers to shift resources, affecting the demand for traditional combustion engines. These challenges need to be navigated carefully to ensure sustainable growth in the automotive engine market.

Market Drivers

Rising Fuel Efficiency Demands

The demand for fuel-efficient vehicles is a driving force behind the growth of the automotive engine market. With the increasing cost of fuel and growing environmental awareness, consumers are prioritizing vehicles that offer better fuel economy. In response, automakers are investing in technologies that optimize engine performance while reducing fuel consumption. This includes innovations like turbocharging, direct fuel injection, and variable valve timing, which enhance the combustion process and overall engine efficiency. Consumers are also opting for smaller, more efficient engines that still offer sufficient power, which has led to the development of downsized turbocharged engines. These advancements not only help reduce the operational cost for consumers but also allow manufacturers to meet stricter fuel economy regulations imposed by governments globally.

Stringent Emission Regulations

The automotive industry is increasingly pressured by governments to meet stringent emission standards to combat climate change and reduce air pollution. As a result, automakers are compelled to develop engines that produce fewer emissions while still delivering the required performance. This has led to significant technological innovations in engine design, such as more efficient combustion processes, improved fuel injection systems, and advanced exhaust treatment technologies. For example, selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems and particulate filters help reduce the amount of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter emitted from engines.

The transition to cleaner engine technologies is essential for meeting global emission regulations, particularly in markets with strict environmental standards like the European Union and parts of North America. For instance, in April 2024, the Euro Council approved the Euro 7 regulation, setting emission limits for road vehicles and battery durability.

It covers exhaust emissions, tire wear, and brake particles, while maintaining Euro 6 standards for passenger cars and vans but introducing stricter solid particle criteria. For heavy-duty vehicles, it imposes tighter limits on various pollutants, including nitrous oxide (N2O), and enforces stricter particle emission thresholds for electric vehicles. The regulation also requires improved lifetime standards for all vehicles, focusing on mileage and overall lifespan.

Technological Advancements in Engine Design

The automotive engine market is experiencing rapid technological advancements, which continue to enhance both engine performance and fuel efficiency. Modern engines are increasingly integrated with smart technologies that optimize power delivery and fuel consumption. For instance, engine management systems (EMS) control variables such as air-fuel ratio, ignition timing, and turbocharger boost to ensure maximum efficiency under varying driving conditions. The integration of sensors and advanced computer systems allows for real-time adjustments that boost performance while reducing emissions. Moreover, variable valve timing (VVT) and variable valve lift (VVL) technologies are enabling engines to operate more efficiently across a broader range of speeds and loads. These technological innovations are essential in meeting consumer demand for both powerful and eco-friendly engines.

Key Market Challenges

High Development and Production Cost

Developing advanced engine technologies and manufacturing them at scale requires substantial investment. High-tech components such as turbochargers, advanced fuel injection systems, and smart engine management systems come at a premium. For manufacturers, these technologies increase both research and development (R&D) cost and production expenses. Smaller manufacturers, particularly those in developing markets, may struggle to compete with larger companies that have the financial resources to invest in such technologies. Additionally, the ongoing trend toward the integration of hybrid systems, which combine traditional engines with electric components, further escalates the complexity and cost of engine production. These high cost could hinder market growth, particularly for entry-level vehicles, which are more price-sensitive.

Supply Chain Disruptions

The global automotive industry is reliant on a complex supply chain for raw materials and components needed for engine production. Issues such as raw material shortages, transportation delays, and geopolitical tensions can disrupt this supply chain, leading to production delays and increased cost. For instance, the shortage of semiconductors in recent years has severely impacted the manufacturing of vehicle components, including engine control units. Moreover, fluctuations in the price of raw materials, such as steel, aluminum, and rare earth metals, can directly affect engine production cost. As the automotive market becomes more interconnected, any disruption in the global supply chain can have cascading effects, impacting the timely delivery of engine parts and driving up production cost.

Shifting Focus Toward Electric Vehicles

As the automotive industry embraces electrification, the traditional internal combustion engine faces increasing competition from electric powertrains. Governments, consumers, and manufacturers are focusing more on electric vehicles (EVs), which do not require traditional engines. This shift is particularly evident in markets with aggressive emissions targets, where automakers are diverting resources away from internal combustion engine development toward EV technology. While hybrid vehicles still require traditional engines, the long-term impact of EV adoption could reduce the demand for conventional engines, making it a challenge for traditional engine manufacturers to sustain growth. The rise of electric mobility presents both an opportunity and a threat, as automakers need to balance investments in electric powertrains while ensuring continued innovation in combustion engines.

Key Market Trends

Integration of Hybrid Engine Technologies

Hybrid engine systems, which combine internal combustion engines with electric motors, are becoming an important trend in the automotive market. These systems provide the benefits of both traditional and electric powertrains, offering improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and enhanced performance. Hybrid engines are particularly popular in markets with high fuel prices and stringent emissions regulations, as they provide a viable alternative to purely gasoline or diesel-powered engines. Hybrid powertrains can reduce the dependency on fossil fuels, offering consumers a more eco-friendly option without the range anxiety associated with fully electric vehicles. Automakers are continuously improving hybrid engine designs to reduce weight, increase energy efficiency, and lower manufacturing cost, making them more accessible to a broader range of consumers.

Focus on Fuel Flexibility

As the automotive industry explores alternatives to traditional gasoline and diesel fuels, fuel flexibility has emerged as a key trend in engine design. Automakers are increasingly developing engines that can run on multiple fuels, including ethanol, compressed natural gas (CNG), and biofuels. These engines offer consumers more options and enable automakers to adapt to changing fuel availability and prices. In markets where fossil fuels are less accessible or more expensive, fuel-flexible engines offer a practical solution for reducing dependence on traditional gasoline.

As biofuels and other alternative fuels become more prevalent, fuel-flexible engines provide a way to align with sustainability goals while still delivering the power and performance expected from traditional engines. For instance, in November 2024, Toyota is set to introduce the HyCross, a flex-fuel-powered vehicle in India, marking the country's first flex-fuel hybrid passenger car.

The renowned Japanese automotive manufacturer claims that this model will also be the first flex-fuel vehicle in the world to comply with BS6 II standards. The engine featured in the HyCross flex prototype is a two-liter Atkinson Cycle engine, complemented by an electric motor, mirroring the configuration of Toyota's conventional hybrid HyCross. This engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder unit that produces 181 bhp and achieves a fuel efficiency of 23.24 kmpl. Toyota assures that the prototype is capable of running on a blend of 20% ethanol and 80% gasoline while maintaining performance levels equivalent to those of the commercially available HyCross hybrid.

Growth of Emerging Markets

The automotive industry in emerging markets, particularly in Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and parts of Africa, is witnessing significant growth. As these regions experience rapid urbanization, rising disposable income, and improved infrastructure, the demand for automobiles - particularly affordable and efficient vehicles - is increasing. Automakers are investing in these markets by developing engine technologies that cater to local needs, such as compact and fuel-efficient engines that are well-suited for urban driving. The growth of middle-class populations in countries like India, China, and Brazil is pushing the demand for both passenger and commercial vehicles, further driving the need for engines that balance performance, cost, and fuel efficiency. This growth in emerging markets presents opportunities for manufacturers to expand their presence globally and adapt engine designs to regional preferences.

Segmental Insights

Fuel Type Insights

The automotive engine market is primarily segmented by fuel type, with the key categories being petrol, diesel, and other fuels. Petrol engines are widely used in passenger vehicles due to their smooth operation, lower emissions compared to diesel engines, and the availability of infrastructure supporting petrol fueling stations. Petrol engines generally offer better acceleration and are lighter, making them a popular choice for smaller vehicles. These engines are known for their efficiency in urban driving conditions and their relatively lower initial purchase cost, which appeals to cost-conscious consumers.

Diesel engines, on the other hand, are typically found in larger vehicles, including commercial trucks, buses, and SUVs. Diesel engines offer higher fuel efficiency compared to petrol engines, which makes them more suitable for long-distance travel and heavy-duty applications. Diesel fuel contains more energy per liter, allowing vehicles with diesel engines to achieve greater fuel economy. These engines are also known for their durability and ability to produce more torque, which is ideal for vehicles that need to carry heavy loads or tow large trailers. However, diesel engines are subject to more stringent emission standards, leading to the development of advanced after-treatment technologies, such as selective catalytic reduction (SCR) and diesel particulate filters (DPF), to reduce harmful emissions.

Engines powered by other fuels are an emerging segment in the market, as manufacturers explore alternatives to traditional petrol and diesel engines. These other fuels include compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), biofuels, ethanol, and hydrogen. CNG and LPG engines offer a cleaner, more sustainable alternative with lower emissions than traditional petrol and diesel engines.

Biofuels, which can be derived from renewable sources such as plants and waste, are gaining attention for their ability to reduce the carbon footprint of vehicles. Ethanol, often mixed with petrol, is a common biofuel used in many countries, contributing to reduced dependence on fossil fuels. Hydrogen fuel cells are also emerging as a promising alternative, especially for heavy-duty vehicles and public transport, as they produce only water vapor as a byproduct and offer a clean energy solution. These alternative fuel options are still in the early stages of adoption but are expected to grow as infrastructure expands and technological advancements continue.

Each fuel type has its own unique set of advantages, and the choice depends on factors such as vehicle type, application, fuel availability, and environmental considerations. The automotive engine market is evolving to accommodate a mix of these fuel types, reflecting both consumer preferences and regulatory pressures for cleaner, more efficient transportation solutions.

Region Insights

In 2023, North America remained a significant region in the global automotive engine market, characterized by a mature and highly regulated automotive industry. The United States and Canada are the primary contributors to this region's market dynamics, with their advanced automotive manufacturing capabilities and strong emphasis on safety, emissions standards, and fuel efficiency.

The U.S. automotive industry, in particular, has seen significant investment in technologies aimed at improving engine efficiency and reducing emissions. This includes the widespread adoption of turbocharged gasoline engines, direct fuel injection, and advanced cylinder deactivation technologies. These innovations help meet the stringent fuel economy and emissions standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The region's consumers are also more inclined towards vehicles with higher power outputs, such as large SUVs, trucks, and luxury vehicles, which require robust, high-performance engines.

Canada’s automotive market, although smaller in comparison, is heavily focused on supporting the electric vehicle (EV) industry, with significant government incentives and investments aimed at promoting EV manufacturing and infrastructure development. However, traditional internal combustion engine technologies, such as those used in gasoline and diesel engines, continue to play a crucial role in the Canadian automotive market. The shift towards hybrid and electric powertrains is gradual, and internal combustion engines, including turbocharged gasoline engines and efficient diesel engines, remain relevant for heavy-duty applications like commercial trucks and buses.

The North American market's focus on innovation, advanced engineering, and stringent regulatory standards continues to drive engine manufacturers to explore new technologies that improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. This includes the integration of lightweight materials, variable valve timing, and advanced exhaust after-treatment systems, such as selective catalytic reduction (SCR) and diesel particulate filters (DPF), to comply with the latest emissions standards.

Overall, North America’s automotive engine market is characterized by high levels of technological innovation and regulatory compliance. While the region has begun to shift its focus towards electric powertrains and other alternative propulsion technologies, internal combustion engines still play a crucial role, especially in heavy-duty vehicles like commercial trucks and large SUVs, where performance and power output are essential. This balance between innovation and regulatory compliance will continue to shape the North American automotive engine market in the coming years.

Key Market Players

• Mercedes-Benz
• Cummins Inc.
• Toyota Motor Corporation
• BMW
• General Motors
• Honda Motor Company Ltd
• Hyundai Motor Company
• Suzuki Motor Corporation
• Stellantis N.V.
• Scania AB

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Automotive Engine market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below.

Automotive Engine Market, By Vehicle Type:

• Passenger Cars
• Commercial Vehicle
• Two-Wheeler

Automotive Engine Market, By Placement Type:

• In-Line
• V-Type
• W-Type

Automotive Engine Market, By Fuel Type:

• Petrol
• Diesel
• Other Fuels

Automotive Engine Market, By Region:

• North America
• United States
• Canada
• Mexico
• Europe & CIS
• France
• Germany
• Spain
• Italy
• United Kingdom
• Rest of Europe
• Asia-Pacific
• China
• Japan
• India
• Vietnam
• South Korea
• Thailand
• Australia
• Middle East & Africa
• South Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Turkey
• South America
• Brazil
• Argentina

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Automotive Engine Market.

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Company Information

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